The NRA’s Answer to Gun Violence: Arm Everyone

The NRA has become the spokesperson in defense of guns in this country. It’s a shame that we need such a defender but they want to come to the defense to protect their interests and the interests of their members.

I expected a response from the NRA, as did most people. I did not expect to receive the response given by Vice President Wayne LaPierre. It came off as overly aggressive and defensive. And, while that may be the feelings of the NRA and its members, that was not the time to aggressive pursue a policy of arming everyone.

My biggest issue with the statement was not the context; rather, my issue is with the defiance toward anything regarding gun control and, even more, a lack of acknowledgement of the tragic events that occurred just days before and continue to occur from guns on a daily basis in this country.

The response from the NRA seemed to desire armed school teachers.

The N.R.A.’s plan for countering school shootings, coming a week after the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., was met with widespread derision from school administrators, law enforcement officials and politicians, with some critics calling it “delusional” and “paranoid.” Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey, a Republican, said arming schools would not make them safer. NY Times.

Many people, even those on the right, seem to think most reactions and calls for change are an emotional response. And, they’re probably correct. But, does that mean nothing needs to change? Are we to keep going and forget what occurred? No. But, like all important issues, this requires civility and mutual respect to create any meaningful and long lasting change.

Mr. LaPierre asked when the word gun became a bad word. Gun isn’t a bad word I fail to see how anyone needs a high powered military grade weapon to protect their home but, then again, I probably see the world as a better place than they do. I’ll get off my soapbox for now. But let me say this: more guns is never the answer, however, neither is having more toothless gun laws. So, what do we do?

Bryan is the founder of 2 Rights Make a Left. While obtaining his J.D., Bryan researched and wrote extensively on Capital Punishment, an issue that remains close to his heart to this day. He has spent the majority of his adult life involved in politics in some form or another. Bryan spends most of his time reading, writing and discussing all things politics. Bryan loves to travel and, if he had his way, would constantly be jetting off to another destination. The rest of his time is spent following his beloved Bears, Bulls and Cubbies.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bryan Driscoll

Bryan is the founder of 2 Rights Make a Left. While obtaining his J.D., Bryan researched and wrote extensively on Capital Punishment, an issue that remains close to his heart to this day. He has spent the majority of his adult life involved in politics in some form or another. Bryan spends most of his time reading, writing and discussing all things politics. Bryan loves to travel and, if he had his way, would constantly be jetting off to another destination. The rest of his time is spent following his beloved Bears, Bulls and Cubbies.